Sister Maria Gemma Salyer, OSF

Bio

Sister Maria Gemma joined the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration in 2006, after earning a B.A. in Theology from Ohio Dominican University. As a Sister, she taught Theology at Central Catholic High School and served as an assistant director of vocations for the order in Mishawaka. Sister Maria Gemma further expanded her ministry and skills as a leader in Women’s Ministry at the University of Notre Dame.

In 2015, Sister Maria Gemma was invited to join the Board of Trustees at the University of Saint Francis. Since then, she has taken on numerous leadership roles. She served as Assistant Campus Minister before being named Vice President for Catholic Culture and Student Life in 2023. In that position, Sister Maria Gemma oversaw all aspects of student life while also serving as Title IX Coordinator and as a member of the President’s Cabinet. Under her leadership, the university redefined and deepened its Catholic mission and values.

In 2026, Sister Maria Gemma was named Executive Vice President where she will oversee day-to-day campus operations under the leadership of the president. “I live the Gospel by supporting the university’s mission and working closely with students and employees,” she said. “My goal is to help all members of the university community thrive and flourish.” 

In addition to her undergraduate degree, Sister Maria Gemma holds an M.A. in Philosophy from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, with a focus on higher education leadership, from Indiana State University. Her areas of interest include:

• Mission
• Student Life
• Higher Education Administration
• Theology and Philosophy